Return to Sanditon - A Novella

~ Eight ~

Trafalgar House, Sanditon

Tom Parker was sat behind his desk, lost in thought when Mary returned from her impromptu walk. He looked up as she entered the room and noticed for the first time, the frown that played across her features when she regarded the Sanditon model. A thought to be unpicked later, he decided, as Mary strode across the room with purpose.

"Tom. I've made a decision," Mary spoke in a clear and determined tone, quite different from her usual conciliatory manner. "The children and I are leaving for London in the morning. We shall stay at the townhouse and prepare for Sidney's nuptials. Though how I shall ever bring myself to welcome that woman into our family, I will never know." Mary spoke bitterly, "Charlotte is in London, and I shall be there to support her through this difficult time. You may join us for the wedding and not a moment sooner. A little time apart will allow us to consider what is truly important."

Tom sat motionless for a long time after Mary had left the room. Quite unable to understand what had just occurred. Had his wife just left him? He worried that may be the case. Too many times he had betrayed her trust, it seemed. How would he go on without her? The children too. How little time he had devoted to his children of late. Would they miss him? I doubt it, he thought sadly.

He was interrupted sometime later by the arrival of young Mr Stringer. Just 'Mr Stringer' now, he mused miserably, after the loss of his father. What a fine craftsman he had been! Such a shame.

"Mr Stringer, what brings you here at this time of day? Work on the rebuilding of the terrace is proceeding as desired, I trust?" Tom regarded Mr Stringer wish fresh concern.

James Stringer was a pleasant man for whom temper took a time to build, yet his anger had reached its limits some time ago. His father's death had made it more difficult to ignore the shortcomings of men such as Mr Tom Parker.

"I've come out of courtesy, Sir, to inform you of an offer I've received," James Stringer began, "I delayed somewhat, after father's passing, but I find myself unable to turn down this opportunity."

He kept his face as neutral as he could as he regarded his employer. How much he blamed Mr Parker for the troubles besetting the Sanditon development. Lack of workers, unreliable wages and shortcuts in safety, wore a man down, and ultimately left a stonemason painting cornices well past working hours to ensure the work got done. No, this job was no longer for him.

"An apprenticeship has been held open for me in London. I shall be leaving by weeks end."

Mr Tom Parker muttered, "My, all the excitement is in London these days it seems." He stood and rounded his desk, hand outstretched, "An exciting opportunity, I wish you well."

With that, he turned and walked from the room, leaving Mr Stringer to find his own way out.